The Black Butte Copper Project will bring long-lasting social and economic change to our region.

“This is an opportunity for thoughtful, planned, and managed growth that will allow our community to develop into a healthy, vibrant balance of population, homes, jobs, schools, medical and retirement services, etc.”

Mike Eby, White Sulphur Springs

Economic Impact

We’re working with the community to build a business model that works for the people of Meagher County and Central Montana to prosper with the mine and for generations afterward.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

Sandfire meets regularly with a community group to make sure we are addressing all concerns of the community

Sandfire is creating a Stakeholder group including the Montana conservation community and local/regional leaders to be involved in environmental stewardship.

Approximately 31 additional school-aged children will attend school in Meagher County during operational stage.

The countywide taxable value could quadruple, and is projected to increase upwards of $20 million dollars. Currently, countywide taxable value is $7,888,020 (TY 2012-2013).

The MBAC also projects annual retail sales increasing by $3.4 million during the life of the mine.

Jobs

Based on our expectation of 240 employees and 50 full time contractors, we project that we will be the largest employer in a 50 mile radius giving a significant economic boost to all of Montana.

There will be approximately 200 positions needed during the mine construction phase which will last 24-36 months. When the mine opens, the operational phase will provide approximately 240 jobs.

Positions will range from mine operators to truck drivers, electricians, mechanics, business and accounting services, management personnel and related occupations such as engineers, geologists, hydrologists, surveyors, maintenance personnel and other technical support positions. There will also be private contractors hired to perform certain tasks.

Compensation will be based on skill level, experience training and education. Entry level labor positions will begin around $15/hr for entry level and $29/hr for experienced miners and include benefit packages for health insurance, sick leave, vacation leave and some form of retirement package.

The average wage of workers will be approximately $65,000 per year including benefits. More highly skilled positions could expect compensation packages commensurate with industry standards for Montana and surrounding region.

Social Responsibility

“Whenever and however we can support the local area by giving back and volunteering, we’re committed to doing so.The Black Butte Copper Project isn’t just about building the best mine… It’s about building a better community.”

We can only do this project right with insight and support from our community.

This is how Sandfire is engaging the people of Meahger County. From the begining through reclamation:

We’re committed to operating in an open, inclusive and cooperative manner

We seek input from our community members at every juncture

We look for ways to support growth and economic opportunity

Our tax funds can help improve local infrastructure.

We provide family sustainable wages

We’re protecting all of our natural resources

We’re transparent and accessible and share information regularly

Our company philosophy is to be involved in civic activities in the community

Employees regularly volunteer their time in the community

Schedule a Tour

“We have designed, and will build, a state-of-the-art underground copper mine that sets a new standard in responsible development; not just in Montana, but world-wide. We want to have a net positive impact in everything we do. Please join us on our tour days on the first of every month, contact us with questions, or visit or website to learn more.“

At Sandfire Resources Black Butte Copper Project,
we have committed ourselves to responsible development and adhere to our core values of implementing responsible environmental practices, and contributing long lasting benefits to local communities and to society.